A It isn't essential to have a bowel movement every day--a
normal range varies from three times a day to three times a week
depending on the individual-but this old-fashioned theory still leads
people to self-treat themselves with over-the-counter laxatives that may
not be necessary.

As to constipation, this is defined as having a bowel movement less
than three times a week and passing stools that are hard, dry and small
in size, and difficult to eliminate. Most older adults experience this
at some point and usually it is related to a poor diet, dehydration,
lack of physical activity, medications (including those used to treat
high blood pressure, Parkinson's disease, and antidepressants), and
health problems such as stroke, diabetes and an underactive thyroid.
However, any new onset of constipation could be a symptom of disease, so
if you experience a sudden change in your bowel habits, alert your
doctor.

Cutting back on fats (diets like the Atkins, which is high in
cheese, eggs and meat, are linked to a higher risk of constipation) and
boosting the amount of fiber (in whole grains, fruits, and vegetables)
you consume can help prevent and ease constipation by bulking and
softening stools. Drink plenty of fluids, as these also soften stools
(limit caffeinated beverages, as these can worsen constipation by
causing dehydration).Try dietary changes before laxatives, since using
these long term can make the body reliant on them, raising the risk of
rebound constipation. They also can interfere with the absorption of
medications. Talk with your doctor about which laxative might work best
for you.

Patricia Bloom, MD

Geriatric Medicine

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